Known as lead crystal, crystal, or lead glass, this material is similar to other glasses, in that the main component is silica, but also contains lead oxide. There is no set definition for lead crystal glass but some people consider glass with over 24% lead oxide to be lead crystal and under 24% to be simply crystal glass. Lead replaces the calcium content of a typical glass.
The addition of lead oxide increases the clarity of the finished glass by increasing both the refractive index and the density. Lead also increases the so-called ‘working period’ of the glass, making it easier to shape. It is not a crystal, as it is still an amorphous solid. Lead crystal glass is heavier than other glasses and makes a sharp, clear sound when struck.
In modern times, due to increasing awareness of lead’s negative health effects, the popularity of lead crystal glass has greatly decreased. Nevertheless it still has several applications. While the most common usage is in dinnerware, drinking glasses, and ornamental glassware, lead crystal glass is also used in optical applications, glass sealants, and in radiation shielding (specifically from gamma and x rays).
Currently, most health officials recommend that lead glass is used sparingly and that beverages are not stored within lead glass containers for any significant lengths of time, and that children avoid lead crystal. Lead does leach into glassware, but after only a few hours it is still less than the quantity of lead in an ordinary diet - which is not to say that any consumption of lead is necessarily safe, only that occasional and infrequent use should be alright.
Sources/Further Reading: ( 1 ) ( 2 - images 1 and 2 ) ( 3 - image 4 ) ( 4 )
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